Boxing Day featured a significant Premier League matchup as Manchester United hosted Newcastle United. The Red Devils were looking to return to winning ways after a difficult patch, having dropped points in back-to-back games, which jeopardized their chances of qualifying for next season's European competition. They desperately needed a win to get back on track against Newcastle at Old Trafford.

Ruben Amorim's squad had to fight hard to secure a narrow 1-0 victory, a result that pushed them to fifth in the Premier League table. The team faced the game without their skipper, Bruno Fernandes, who is expected to be out for three weeks due to a hamstring injury. Casemiro returned from a one-match suspension, and Lisandro Martinez took over as captain, replacing Leny Yoro in the starting lineup that was beaten at Aston Villa. Newcastle, on the other hand, remained unchanged from the team that drew with Chelsea the previous weekend. Former Manchester United forward Anthony Elanga was not named on the bench, though goalkeeper Nick Pope was fit enough to return from a groin issue.

Manchester United started the game brightly, implementing a high press that put Newcastle under early pressure. Their persistence paid off in the 24th minute when Diogo Dalot's long throw was only partially cleared, allowing Patrick Dorgu to unleash a phenomenal volley from 15 yards into the bottom left corner, securing the decisive goal. In the second half, Newcastle changed their approach, pushing the Red Devils back into their own half and creating several chances. However, despite their efforts, they could not find an equalizer. The game concluded with Manchester United holding onto their 1-0 lead, marking a crucial return to winning ways for Ruben Amorim's team in the Premier League.